Reconstruction of the Vulvar Defects After Cancer Ablative Surgery Using Rhomboid Flap and Anterolateral Thigh Flap

Objective To reveal the clinical outcome reconstruction of the vulvar defects with rhomboid flap and anterolateral thigh flap in following cancer ablative surgery. Methods From July 2007 to June 2012, 9 patients with vulvar cancer who underwent surgery were retrospectively studied. The study protocol was approved by the Ethical Review Board of Investigation in Human Being of Cancer Hospital of Shantou University Medical College. Informed consent was obtained from each patients. Unilateral or bilateral rhomboid flaps and anterolateral thigh flap were used in vulvar defects. The incision healing and evaluation of the vulvar configuration were observed, the urination and sexual life 6 months postoperatively were performed. Results Unilateral or bilateral rhomboid flaps were used in 7 patients (77.8%) , anterolateral thigh flaps were used in 2 patients(22.2%) in the study. All patients had a well-shaped vulvar configuration with good elasticity, without scar contracture, urination deflection, or virginal stricture observed, and all flaps survived completely in 9 patients (100%) . 4 patients restored sexual life. Conclusions Reconstruction of the vulvar defects according to their dimension with unilateral/ bilateral rhomboid flaps or anterolateral thigh flaps has some clinical value which can rebuild the patients' vulvar anatomic shape and improve their quality of life. Key words: Vulvar neoplasm; Anterolateral thigh flap; Rhomboid flap; Vessel crisis